The Pentagon’s clinical guidance outlining required testosterone testing among military members was taken off the Department of Defense’s website Thursday, less than 24 hours after being published. The published guidance, initially reported by CBS News and Wednesday, detailed the Department of Defense’s new policy, effective immediately, that requires military men aged 30 and older to be tested for testosterone levels. However, a link to the Defense Department’s announcement and the Defense Health Agency’s policy were both unavailable Thursday morning.
A defense official told The Independent that it was temporarily rescinded to allow for updates but that the final clinical guidance would be issued soon. As of September 3, the interim guidance on testosterone deficiency screenings would remain in effect. The clinical guidance was published less than two months after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that testosterone testing would be part of routine health assessments and that those with lower testosterone levels would be given the option to take hormone replacement therapy.
According to the guidance, reported by CBS News, active-duty troops and reservists aged 30 and older who were diagnosed with hypogonadism would receive follow-up screenings and treatment if needed. In the guidance, the department said testosterone levels are a "critical biological marker for Warfighter readiness, directly impacting physical strength, bone density, aerobic fitness, depressive symptoms, and cardiovascular health." If someone is diagnosed with low testosterone, treatment is available but not required. A Defense official said the department was committed to addressing hormone deficiencies and protecting the long-term health of service members.
In his July announcement, Hegseth said the new screening was “not about artificial enhancement” but “about restoring and optimizing your natural capabilities, protecting your longevity and ensuring you have the biological foundation required to sustain the fight.” While testosterone blood testing is required for those 30 and older, it also allows military men under the age of 30 to be voluntarily tested. The guidance also created separate screening for women service members. While it did not require routine hormonal testing, it said women over the age of 35 should be asked about symptoms of hormonal dysregulation and referred for further assessment if needed.
It also issued guidelines for when it is appropriate to prescribe off-label testosterone in women, Fox News reported. Testosterone testing is just one of Hegseth’s new initiatives to eliminate what he called “fat troops” and overhaul the image of the military to align with President Donald Trump’s agenda. Under his leadership, Hegseth has taken steps to return the military’s image to a male-dominated force.
He has implemented stricter grooming standards and higher physical fitness standards. Earlier this year, Hegseth unveiled a new Army Combat Field Test to ensure service members return “to the highest male standard.” Active-duty Air Force members were also required to submit their waist-to-height ratios for officials to evaluate “readiness and health of the force.” Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
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